How to Decide Quality of Surgical Instruments?


Surgical instruments are uniquely designed tools to perform particular operation; some surgical instruments are designed for general use in surgery, while others are designed for a particular process or surgery.
As these are special tools, quality is one of the key factors whether buying new instruments, or merely evaluating you already own. An evaluation criterion is highly dependent on the product kind and its functionality e.g. endoscopes functionality and quality should not be compared with hand tools such as scissors and forceps. However some general aspects require considering when buying new surgical instruments.

Raw Material
Raw material plays big role in surgical instruments, high quality raw material instruments last longer without losing their shape and functionality. Selection of raw material some depends on the designed function of the tool, e.g. Scissors cannot be manufactured in non-magnet stainless steel being soft.

Surface Finish
Surgical instruments surface is shining (matt finished, mirror polished) to prevent decaying and simple cleaning before and after use. When purchasing new instruments assure surface and mechanical joints are clean, smooth and free from cracks and porous materials unless specifically needed for the functionality of the instrument.

Ergonomically Design
Surgical instruments should be simple to use, user-friendly and ergonomically designed.

Smooth Operation
some surgical instruments are made of multi-parts; working of these instruments should be smooth, e.g. scissors should cut smoothly and forceps should grasp smoothly.

Passivation
Passivation is a procedure that prevents rusting; passivated instruments last longer without getting rust. Ask for passivated instruments when purchasing new.

Purchasing quality instruments advantages you many ways

Certified conformity
Instruments last longer with normal care
Do not get rusted quickly
Reduce repair/replacement cost
The instrument holds up over time
Pattern Consistency
Esthetic feel during use
Smooth Operation
Superior finish
Quality raw material
No manufacturing defects or flaws